‘They want to ask how serious it was but they are not trained to do so. It’s important that it is reported straight away.

Don’t push them into anything (Picture: Shutterstock)

‘You can call the police, or likewise Childline.

‘The difference between us and children’s services is it’s what we are here for, we have time.

‘If parent breaks down because the realisation hits them, we have time.

‘We can even call the police and report the incident on their behalf it they don’t want to.’

What will happen to my child now?

This depends massively on the nature of the assault.

It’s also dependent on the age of the victim, and their level of understanding.

Mr Canning said: ‘Police will make the decision as to whether the child is able to give evidence, and whether the case is serious enough.

‘If child has to give evidence they have to go through it all again in court. So it’s important parents ask as few questions as possible.’

Ms Thornhill added: ‘This really depends on the nature of the allegation – sometimes the child will be examined by a doctor.’

We need to talk about what happened

Speak to Childline.

Trained professionals are there, not just for children but to support adults who are worried about a child.

They also give advice for parents and carers and offer consultations with professionals who come into contact with abused children or children at risk of abuse.’

Seeking help

An NSPCC spokesperson told Metro.co.uk: ‘Child sexual abuse is a deeply traumatic experience that if untreated can lead to serious mental health problems, robbing victims of their childhood and having long-lasting effects into adulthood. Our programme Letting the Future In is designed to help victims express feelings that they can’t put into words through messy play, writing, storytelling and art.

‘We also work to try and prevent sexual abuse with our Speak Out Stay Safe programme, where a team of volunteers visit schools to teach children about abuse; how to recognise the signs, how to protect themselves and where to get help, including our Childline service.’